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Now in its fourth year, the idea of the huge gathering of former fisherman from across Grimsby is to contribute further to raising the profile of Grimsby's proud fishing history, recording the timeless memories of those on the front line and preserving the history for future generations to enjoy.

Fishing Heritage Centre, Grimsby

The event was organised in partnership with the Fisherman's Mission, and education officer at the Fishing Heritage Centre, Dave Ornsby, explains how the event is all about celebrating Grimsby's fishing heritage which has put "Grimsby on the map".

He said: "Unfortunately there are faces we don't see one year to the next because we are losing generations who meant so much to our town.

"There's wonderful memories from brilliant people that we do need to try to preserve."

Dave went on to explain how the heritage centre is working hard to reach out to more children and introduce them to the history of Grimsby's fishing past.

The Ross Tiger coming into service in 1957 she was built at Cochrane's Selby yard for Ross Trawlers

Around 1500 and 2000 children visit the centre each year, and that figure is expected to grow.

Dave added: "When they come here they learn about the most dangerous job in the world and this fantastic way of life that gave us a national dish.

"We want more people to be proud of it and think Great Grimsby is really great and we have something to really shout about."

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Although free entry to local ex-trawlermen has existed for many years, the Fishing Heritage Centre staff have felt that not enough ex-fishermen are aware of it and haven’t used the building as much as they would like.

One of those former fisherman who showed up to the reunion on Thursday night was Martin Grant, who spent 30 years at sea and took up his first job aboard a trawler aged just 15.